Chiesa Anglicana (Anglican Church), Palermo

The Anglican Church in Palermo, officially known as The Church of the Holy Cross, stands as a historical and architectural landmark along Rome Street (Via Roma). Built in the 1870s during a period when Sicily was under the British Protectorate, the church reflects the era's influx of British entrepreneurs to the island, notably Joseph Whitaker and his cousin Benjamin Ingham Jr., who were instrumental in its construction.

The church was conceived as a result of substantial contributions from these two English entrepreneurs. Benjamin Ingham Jr. not only funded the project but also donated the land for the church, strategically located opposite the then Ingham palace, now the Grand Hotel et des Palmes. Unfortunately, he passed away in 1872, and Joseph Whitaker assumed responsibility for continuing the construction, which began that same year and concluded in 1875.

Architects William Barber and Henry Christian, the latter being Whitaker’s son-in-law, designed the church. Their architectural vision produced a structure typical of Anglican churches of that time, marked by a significant central rose window and a slender, pointed bell tower. The church's base follows a straightforward rectangular plan, and its façades are characterized by minimal decoration, featuring only modest skylights.

In 1903, a notable addition was made with the installation of an organ built by T.W. Walker & Sons of London, which was directly shipped from the UK. This organ was later rebuilt in 2003 during its centenary celebration.

Throughout its history, The Church of the Holy Cross has served various roles, including being utilized by the U.S. Forces during World War II. Since 1962, it has been part of the Diocese of Gibraltar and is currently under the Diocese of Europe, maintaining its allegiance to the Anglican Church of England. This church not only serves as a place of worship but also as a beacon of British influence and architectural style in Sicily.